Course
Technical Writing
Name
COM-3727AE
Available Classes
Intended Audience
This course is intended for anyone interested in learning the fundamental techniques of technical writing.
Description
Do you have a knack for explaining complex subjects so they’re easy to understand? If so, you should consider technical writing. This course will teach you the fundamental techniques of technical, writing – how to translate complex information into easily understood language, technical writing conventions, interviewing skills, desktop publishing and formatting techniques, key tips for developing graphics and templates, documentation management, and how to publish documents in print and electronically.
Course Objectives
- Learn the secrets of successful technical writers.
- Learn how to translate complex information into easily understood language.
- Learn how to become a wizard at marrying the art of publishing with the science of technology.
Outline of Instruction
- Lesson 1 - Technical Writing Overview
Technical writing is a relatively new profession, but people have been writing technical documents for centuries. In the first lesson, you will learn the fascinating history of technical writing and how technical writing employs both the logical and creative sides of your brain. - Lesson 2 - Preparing to Write
Technical writing requires preparation. In this lesson, you will learn the basics of project management for your documentation project and key questions to help you analyze your reading audience, and how to organize this information. - Lesson 3 - Gathering Information
In this lesson, you will learn powerful communication skills that will help you get the information you need. You will also learn how to ask questions that help you get the answers you need more efficiently, and how to apply principles of adult learning when you're analyzing the information you've gathered. - Lesson 4 - Writing Skills
Do you ever get writer's block? Most writers do. In this lesson, you will learn how to shut off your internal editor and give yourself permission to write your first draft more quickly and easily. You will discover tips that can help you keep writing even when you don't have all of the information you need. - Lesson 5 - Tech Writing Conventions
Every profession has rules and conventions that separate the novices from the pros. In this lesson, you will learn all about time-honored technical writing conventions, such as using parallel structure, an inverted pyramid style of writing, effective headings, and lists. - Lesson 6 - Graphics
Should you save your graphics as BMPs, GIFs, or JPGs? This lesson goes over the difference between the most popular graphics file formats and guidelines for using each. You will also learn about a new file format called PNG and how to create and manipulate screenshots on your PC. - Lesson 7 - Document Formatting
Formatting your document can be critical to its success. In this lesson, you will learn how to choose the typeface or typefaces you want to use and principles for using type effectively in your document. You will learn about the things you need to keep in mind when laying out your pages. - Lesson 8 - Microsoft Word's Paragraph Styles
Microsoft Word has nearly a 93% market share for PC-based word processing. Chances are high that you will use it at some time in your technical writing career. In this lesson, you will learn how Microsoft Word is different from other word-processing applications and how to use, modify, and create in Word. - Lesson 9 - Document Templates
When companies use Microsoft Word for their documentation, they expect you to know how to use and create Word templates. In this lesson, you will learn how to build templates and other Word skills such as recording macros, customizing your toolbar, and more. - Lesson 10 - Creating Indexes
Did you know that indexes are the most widely read section in any technical document? In this lesson, you will review indexing conventions and ways to build a great index for your document. You will also learn how to use Microsoft Word to make indexing a bit easier. - Lesson 11 - Editing and Proofreading
To polish your document and make it the best it can be, you need to proofread it and edit it. In this lesson, you will learn tips from professional proofreaders and editors, as well as ways you can use Microsoft Word to help you check your spelling and grammar. - Lesson 12 - Publishing Your Document
Publishing your document is an exciting time. All of your hard work is almost done—or is it? Your final lesson explores different printing options and trends in publishing. You will also learn the ways you can use your technical writing skills and a four-step plan for getting your first job.
Contact Hours
24
CEU's
No
Industry Standard, State, or National Certification
No
CE to CU Articulation
No
Prerequisites
There are no prerequisites to take this course.
Text and Supplies Needed
Hardware Requirements:
This course must be taken on a PC. Macs are not compatible.
Other:
Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.
Instructional Material Requirements:
The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.
This course must be taken on a PC. Macs are not compatible.
Other:
Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.
Instructional Material Requirements:
The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.
Clinical Site/Special Facilities
Requirements for Successful Completion of this Course
- Attendance 90% or above
- Participation
- • Students must successfully pass 10 quizzes with a minimum grade of 70% by the second quiz attempt.
• If all quizzes are not passed with 70 or better by the second attempt, the final exam score must be 70% or higher on the first attempt for successful completion.
• The Final Exam must be taken by the Wake Tech course end date.
Accreditation/Special Approval Requirements
Intended Audience
This course is intended for anyone interested in learning the fundamental techniques of technical writing.
Specific Industry or Business Support Needs
Industry or Job Titles Related to training Outcomes for Employment
Related Courses
Course Contact Information